Pull something/a rabbit out of the hat

usgb
verb

To produce something in a surprising or unexpected way, especially at the last moment.

The team was losing the match but the coach pulled a rabbit out of the hat by bringing on a new player who scored two goals.
Visual representation of "pull something/a rabbit out of the hat" - To produce something in a surprising or unexpected way, especially at the last moment

Often appears as...

  • pull a solution out of the hat
  • pull a plan out of the hat

Usage tips

Informal

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "pull something/a rabbit out of the hat"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Unexpected Solutions

This phrase often implies solving a problem in a surprising way that others did not anticipate.

Illustration for Unexpected Solutions
When all seemed lost, Sarah managed to pull a rabbit out of the hat and secure funding for the project.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Last Minute

It suggests that the action or solution comes in a crucial moment, often when time is running out.

Illustration for Last Minute
With the deadline approaching, he pulled a rabbit out of the hat by finishing the report overnight.
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Figurative Use

Remember, this is a metaphorical expression, not to be taken literally. No real hat or rabbit is involved.

Illustration for Figurative Use
The chef pulled a rabbit out of the hat with that incredible dessert made from just three ingredients.
Visual representation of the word "Pull something/a rabbit out of the hat"

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